Lines of Communication

I was in my 40s when my genetic hearing loss was diagnosed, and I started my journey of learning to cope with this invisible disability. With the holiday season approaching—and the many difficult listening situations it brings—here are some of the things I've learned over these 50 years.

I have the good fortune of being able to take advantage of all the hearing technology that has developed over these years—captioning, audio loops, Bluetooth, ever-shrinking and better hearing aids, and the wonder of cochlear implants, to name a few.

People who have a hearing loss seldom acknowledge their disability. It’s easy to hide the fact you can’t hear, especially if you have a spouse, relative or friend who is willing to be your “ears.” Very few people find the courage to be a “somebody” and say, “I have a hearing loss. Please make eye contact with me when you speak and talk a little slower than you usually do.”